Hook, line, and sinker is an idiomatic expression that originated in fishing but has transcended its literal meaning and is often used in colloquial language. When used figuratively, "hook, line, and sinker" refers to a complete and unquestioning acceptance of something, often in a credulous or gullible manner.
The term comes from the equipment used in angling. The hook is a curved piece of metal designed to catch fish, which represents the main element of a persuasive argument or scam. The line is attached to the hook and serves as a connection between the angler and the fish, representing the means of ensnaring or captivating someone's attention. Lastly, the sinker is a weight attached to the line to submerge it in the water, symbolizing the final element that solidifies the commitment or belief in the matter at hand.
When someone falls for something "hook, line, and sinker," it means they have completely and unconditionally accepted an idea, story, or proposal without questioning its validity. It implies that the person has been easily deceived or manipulated, willingly or unknowingly.
This phrase is often used in a negative context, highlighting the person's naivety or lack of critical thinking. It can be employed to describe scenarios such as falling for a scam, unquestioning belief in a false statement or ideology, or blindly accepting a sales pitch or persuasive argument without evaluating its merits.
